5 Sports Sedans To Show Off

2. Acura TL

MSRP: $33,625

In 1987, Acura emerged as a North American brand from the tapestry of Honda to provide an upscale Japanese image, becoming the first brand to do so. Acura has also taken steps to assert itself as a feared competitor to the European-dominated sports sedan category of the late ‘80s to mid-‘90s. Utilizing technology such as Honda's famed VTEC variable valve timing, the Japanese nameplate has evolved to form the advanced Acura TL.

Equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist, it works alongside traction control to adjust brake and throttle, the TL's 17-inch high-performance tires make full use of its engine power. From the standard TL, 258 horsepower is generated from a 3.2-liter V6 engine sporting a four-valve per cylinder configuration for optimized combustion. For 2007, the TL lineup will add a larger six-cylinder 3.5-liter, 286 horsepower, Type-S model. The Acura TL Type-S version also includes Brembo brakes, LED taillights and a sports-tuned suspension.

Transmission choices are a five-speed automatic with SportShift or a six-speed manual. For the Type-S, the five-speed automatic includes steering wheel mount paddle-shifters — a feature fast becoming a staple for any true sports sedan. Regardless of the gearbox you choose for the TL, the interior will carry Acura's trademark modern luxury persona, which includes leather seating, navigational system, Bluetooth interface, and a tastefully designed dashboard.

3. Infiniti G35

MSRP: $31,200

The automotive brand's first name seemingly sells its vehicles as everlasting. In the mere 15-year existence of this luxury subsidiary of Nissan, Infiniti has firmly fought against Acura and Lexus for supremacy. Benefiting from the resurgence of Infiniti's parent company, the automaker is now developing some of the sleekest, forward-looking examples of Japanese luxury. The production and sale of Infiniti G35 is one of the boldest moves made by Infiniti to date.

Based on the same platform as the famed Japanese supercar — the Nissan Skyline — the Infiniti G35 wears its performance under an exquisite touring car's skin in both two- and four-door form. In the form of a sedan, the Infiniti G35 comes in three models starting with the standard G35 with a V6, 3.5-liter 280 horsepower engine and five-speed transmission. The second choice is the G35 AWD armed with Nissan's ATTESA E-TS All-Wheel Drive system for maximum traction when times require four-wheel power.